Francis Kean resigns from World Rugby Council and withdraws his candidature for Executive Committee

World Rugby notes the Fiji Rugby Union's decision to stand down Francis Kean from the World Rugby Council, and therefore withdrawing his candidature for the World Rugby Executive Committee, following new allegations published in the UK Sunday Times.

In a statement, World Rugby says it takes all allegations of behaviour that is not in keeping with the sport's strong and inclusive values and Bye-Laws extremely seriously.

The world governing body for rugby says it is important to stress that any allegations must be validated.

It says following dialogue with World Rugby, the Fiji Rugby Union recognises the seriousness of the allegations made and the need for them to be fully investigated, and that it is in the best interests of the sport that Kean steps down from the Council and his Executive Committee candidature be withdrawn.

The Fiji Rugby Union confirms that their seat on the World Rugby Council will be filled by union CEO John O'Connor.

There are now seven nominations for seven seats on the World Rugby Executive Committee, which will be confirmed at the 2020 Annual Meeting of the World Rugby Council, held by teleconference on 12th May.

Meanwhile some officials in Fiji had earlier said it is sad politics has wormed it's way into World Rugby.